OCCAR, acting on behalf of Italy, has signed a contract with Orizzonte Sistemi Navali S.p.A. for the development, production and Initial In-Service Support (ISS) of the first DDX next-generation destroyer for the Italian Navy, with an option for the procurement of a second vessel.
The contract signature marks a major milestone in Italy’s naval modernization efforts and officially launches one of Europe’s most ambitious and technologically advanced surface combatant programs.
Managed by OCCAR-EA, the DDX Program will provide the Italian Navy with a new generation of multi-mission destroyers designed to operate effectively in increasingly complex and contested maritime environments. The future vessels will replace the Durand de la Penne-class destroyers, significantly enhancing Italy’s capabilities in fleet air and missile defense, long-range strike operations, command and control, and anti-submarine warfare.
The program represents a strategic investment in military capability, technological innovation, and operational readiness. Designed to support national, joint and NATO operations, the DDX destroyers will deliver a highly capable and future-ready platform while ensuring full interoperability with allied naval forces.
At the core of the program is a next-generation combat system that will integrate sensors, weapons, and support systems within a single operational architecture. The ships will be fitted with an advanced Combat Management System, a state-of-the-art dual-band multifunction radar, sophisticated missile systems capable of countering a broad spectrum of aerial threats and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities.
The platform is designed with sufficient growth margins to accommodate future technologies, including Directed Energy Weapons, ensuring adaptability throughout its operational life.
Combining high survivability standards with advanced propulsion and power-generation architectures, the DDX destroyers will be capable of sustained operations in demanding maritime environments while supporting future generations of sensors and weapons. The ships will, furthermore, be designed to operate seamlessly alongside both manned and unmanned systems across multiple domains, reflecting the evolving requirements of modern naval warfare.
OCCAR-EA Director Joachim Sucker welcomed the contract signature, stating:
“Today’s signature is an important milestone for the Italian Navy, OCCAR and industry. The DDX Program will deliver a highly advanced and future-ready capability that will strengthen Italy’s maritime security and contribute to collective defense. It also highlights the trust placed in OCCAR’s program management expertise and the value of close cooperation between the customer, industry and all stakeholders involved.”
He added:
“Through this program, the Italian Navy will benefit from a platform that combines technological excellence, operational flexibility and innovation. OCCAR remains fully committed to supporting the successful delivery of this strategic capability.”
The contract reflects the strong partnership between the Italian Navy, OCCAR and Orizzonte Sistemi Navali. Through close cooperation and effective program management, all partners will work together to deliver a platform capable of meeting operational requirements for decades to come.
The DDX Program further reinforces OCCAR’s role as a leading European defense program management organization, responsible for delivering complex and technologically advanced capabilities on behalf of its Member States.